IS TECHNOLOGY THE KEY TO REVOLUTIONISING
When Steve Jobs designed the iPad he probably failed to imagine just how far its impact would reach, with parents and teachers using it as the latest tool to help children with autism communicate. Described as a spectrum condition, autism is a lifelong disability
that affects sufferers in different ways. To those with autism the world is a mass of people and places that they struggle to make sense of, often causing feelings of high levels of anxiety. Those with autism can struggle to understand and relate to other people so forming rela- tionships and socialising is likely to be hard for them. It’s common for those on the autism spectrum to have trouble commu- nicating, often having difficulty understanding facial expressions, jokes or
sarcasm whilst others may have a very limited vocabulary, if any at all. The National Autistic Society estimates that around one in every
100 people in the UK have some form of autism, and while it is vital that each individuals needs are met, considering the range of support needed it can sometimes be difficult. Currently, a number of techniques are used in schools to help chil-
dren with the condition communicate, including cue cards, conversa- tion books and sign language. Add to that a number of devices such as PECS (picture exchange communication systems), interactive com- munication boards and voice output communication aids.
Champion However, many are poorly designed or unable to properly commu-
nicate the feelings of those using them and none of these techniques are readily available in one compact place, unlike the iPad. Since its launch in 2010, the National Autistic Society has been one of the biggest champions of the iPad for those with autism, and has started using them in a number of their schools across the UK. In a recent interview with the BBC, Richard Mills, head of research
at Research Autism and the National Autistic Society, said the tech- nology is an ideal opportunity to take’ a huge step forward in our understanding of Autism.’ However, he does recommend the need for parents to talk to their
Modern technology is changing the way we learn.
child’s school to ensure that the apps used at home are compatible with the schools approach. Stressing that, parents must not expect miracles as technology can revolutionise the way children with autism communicate, but not in all cases. For some autism sufferers however, iPads can develop communication skills, even in those who may have previously had little or no speech at
www.ioosales.co.uk 30 actionetwork
AUTISM LEARNING?
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44